Inside Frequency Control

Key Developments in mmW Radio Spectrum Research

Fifth Generation Wireless is Right Around the Corner

Fifth generation wireless systems are not far from becoming a reality, thanks to recent research being done on the millimeter wave (mmW) radio spectrum. Experts agree the way forward is to manufacture mass deployable wireless devices across a range of markets and for different applications. Among other things, these applications include mobile computing and data processing over networks. The technology also has applications in the field of medicine and healthcare.

Let's explore deeper into what the future of mmW technology holds...

Did Someone Say Better Video Streaming?

The main focus of mmW technology for the immediate future is in the building of information networks that are capable of faster data processing to offer better-streaming services for video and other multimedia content. 30 and 300Ghz is the band of spectrum which the millimeter wave occupies. An essential aspect of designing cutting edge wireless mmW technology is the establishment of proper testing equipment which is able to give an accurate picture of the processing speed, something which is not possible with regular mechanical devices, which are too slow for effectively tracking wireless speeds.

Hopefully, this means even better Netflix streaming soon.

The Creation of Millimeter Waves (and what this means for innovation)

Thus, with the aim of creating a better testing stage, the public testbed will make use of an SDR platform which will be used to combine a phased array that is electrically steerable with parts that do not physically move and the steering is nearly instantaneous. The main advantages this testing platform offers to users is an increase in the speed of millimeter wave systems through the creation of millimeter wave links, allowing for experiments to be performed over the air and being able to test the soundness of designs as well as gauge their performance.

New Rules

Another important aspect of popularizing the use of mmW technology is the establishment of proper rules that companies and clients will have to adhere to. If the right kind of rules are put in place from the start, it will help encourage innovation within the field of mmW technology and aid in the creation of flexible and adaptive wireless use for the entire country.

The fact is, radio spectrum research has applications far beyond merely increasing your internet speed. The work being done in the field at the moment deals mainly with exploring new ways to share larger segments of the spectrum with primary users, such as the military and private companies. But even as the possible applications continue to build up with more of the mmW space being explored, steps are also being taken to guard against possible threats and other problems, such as degraded signals, dropped calls, radio jamming as well as piracy.

Dynamic Borders

One way to deal with all the complications is the development of a flexible exclusion zone for mmW, which will provide users with a constantly evolving border. The main advantage such an arrangement offers is in the creation of a spectrum space where primary users are given top priority in terms of space, but secondary users will be able to make better use of the leftover space in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Primary and secondary users will be able to coexist in a mutually non-interfering manner.

Future of mmW and the Cloud

The future of mmW wireless technology seems unfailingly bright, with most experts agreeing that faster processing time will only help enhance all current wireless devices and applications, and with no major disadvantages being readily apparent through the adoption of the technology. With more and more smartphones and mobiles opting to connect to the cloud at all times, the applications and demand for mmW technology will only continue to increase for the foreseeable future.

What are you most looking forward to with the advancement of mmW? Leave us a comment below. We'd love to know!

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